The Civil War has ended, and Madge, Sadie, and Hemp have each come to Chicago in search of a new life.

Born with magical hands, Madge has the power to discern others’ suffering, but she cannot heal her own damaged heart. To mend herself and help those in need, she must return to Tennessee to face the women healers who rejected her as a child.

Sadie can commune with the dead, but until she makes peace with her father, she, too, cannot fully engage her gift.

Searching for his missing family, Hemp arrives in this northern city that shimmers with possibility. But redemption cannot be possible until he is reunited with those taken from him.

In the bitter aftermath of a terrible, bloody war, as a divided nation tries to come together once again, Madge, Sadie, and Hemp will be caught up in a desperate, unexpected battle for survival in a community desperate to lay the pain of the past to rest.

Beautiful in its historical atmosphere and emotional depth, Balm is a stirring novel of love, loss, hope, and reconciliation set during one of the most critical periods in American history.

*I was granted an advance copy of this novel from the publisher via Edelweiss*

Dolen’s first novel was so vivid, I had dreams about it. Balm is a wonderful, welcome followup to Wench. Truly enjoyed reading about Hemp, Madge, Sadie and especially Michael and his brother, Sgt. Heil– the spirit that wouldn’t go away. I’m a lover of historical fiction, so Chicago just after the slaves were freed was such a compelling setting. I really felt for Hemp and his search for his wife as well as Madge trying to create a life for herself after leaving her mother and sisters in Tennessee.

Dolen’s writing is clear, concise and provides unmatched imagery into this world. Highly recommend- this release comes out Tuesday, May 26th. I’m definitely sending a copy to my mother!

One Response to “ARC REVIEW – Balm by Dolen Perkins-Valdez”

Hello!

Welcome to The Sweet Escape, home of Author DL White. I blog about my adventures as a Romance and Women’s Fiction reader and writer. My work has appeared at IndieInk.org, Short-Story.net and Storyfix.com.

I enjoy reading (lots and lots of reading) writing, candy, Sprite, and things flavored with raspberry… but not raspberries themselves. I hope you’ll drop by often and share in the joy (uh huh) of writing! Enjoy your stay!